Physician Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Physician Assistant make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Physician Assistant is $146,124 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, the average yearly salary for a Physician Assistant is around $146,124. This figure reflects the strong demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the area. Salaries can range widely based on experience and specific job responsibilities. For entry-level positions, salaries start at about $110,000, while those with more experience can earn upwards of $190,000.


Many Physician Assistants in San Diego enjoy robust benefits and opportunities for advancement, making this a rewarding career choice. The high salary range, combined with the chance to make a positive impact on patient care, makes the role of a Physician Assistant appealing for those seeking a fulfilling profession in healthcare.

View Physician Assistant Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Physician Assistant near San Diego, CA?

La Mesa, CA, offers the highest average salary for Physician Assistants at $153,412. Following closely are La Jolla at $143,258 and Chula Vista at $140,469. Santee and El Cajon also provide competitive salaries of $140,000 and $130,111, respectively, making these areas great options for job seekers in the healthcare field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Physician Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Mesa, CA with the highest at $153,412 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $130,111.
  1. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $153,412
    Working in La Mesa offers a friendly community environment for healthcare professionals. Local hospitals and clinics provide numerous opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives while enjoying the beautiful San Diego weather.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in La Mesa, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $143,258
    La Jolla is known for its stunning coastline and vibrant cultural scene. Healthcare facilities here, like Scripps Health, are respected for their innovation and quality care, making it an exciting place for those in the medical field.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $140,469
    Chula Vista is one of the fastest-growing cities in California and offers diverse healthcare needs. Working here allows professionals to engage with a multicultural community and access various healthcare organizations, including Sharp HealthCare.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  4. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $140,000
    Santee provides a suburban setting with a focus on family-centered healthcare. Medical professionals can thrive in this welcoming city, where local clinics work hard to meet the health needs of residents.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in Santee, CA


  5. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $130,111
    El Cajon is a vibrant city with many healthcare facilities that cater to a diverse population. Professionals can find rewarding roles in hospitals and community health centers while enjoying the city's rich history and culture.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Physician Assistant in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, the best paying companies for Physician Assistant jobs offer impressive salaries. UC San Diego leads the way with an average salary of $192,100, followed closely by Kaiser Permanente at $176,980. Other notable employers include UC San Diego Health and Concentra, with average salaries of $174,584 and $158,883, respectively, making this city an excellent choice for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Physician Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting UC San Diego with the highest at $192,100 and Comprehensive Rehab Consultants with the lowest at $122,833.
  1. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $192,100
    UC San Diego offers diverse opportunities for Physician Assistants in various specialties. The campus, located in La Jolla, provides a collaborative environment for PAs to grow in their careers while serving a wide patient base.


  2. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $176,980
    Kaiser Permanente operates numerous facilities in San Diego and focuses on integrated care. Physician Assistants here play a critical role in patient management and have access to continuous education and support.


  3. UC San Diego Health
    Average Salary: $174,584
    At UC San Diego Health, Physician Assistants work alongside leading medical professionals. The organization emphasizes research and innovation in healthcare, making it a rewarding place for PAs to advance their skills.


  4. Concentra
    Average Salary: $158,883
    Concentra provides urgent care and occupational health services in multiple locations across San Diego. Physician Assistants contribute significantly to patient care in a fast-paced environment focused on quality treatment.


  5. San Ysidro Health
    Average Salary: $156,135
    San Ysidro Health serves diverse communities throughout San Diego. Physician Assistants here are vital in delivering comprehensive care to underserved populations, fostering fulfillment in their work.


  6. Rady Children's Hospital
    Average Salary: $152,109
    Rady Children's Hospital is the only pediatric hospital in San Diego. Physician Assistants play a key role in caring for young patients, working with a dedicated team focused on enhancing children's health.


  7. Family Health Centers of San Diego
    Average Salary: $144,722
    Family Health Centers of San Diego offers a wide range of services to the community. Physician Assistants here focus on both primary and specialty care, contributing to a mission of improving health access.


  8. Vivo HealthStaff
    Average Salary: $143,892
    Vivo HealthStaff provides staffing solutions across various healthcare settings. Physician Assistants can find versatile positions that offer valuable experience in different clinical environments.


  9. St Paul's Senior Services
    Average Salary: $130,646
    St Paul's Senior Services focuses on caring for the elderly in San Diego. Physician Assistants here have the opportunity to make a positive impact on senior care, improving the quality of life for patients.


  10. Comprehensive Rehab Consultants
    Average Salary: $122,833
    Comprehensive Rehab Consultants provides rehabilitation services across San Diego. Physician Assistants work with a multidisciplinary team to help patients recover and improve their functional abilities.

There are 2,928 Physician Assistant job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Physician Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Physician Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Physician Assistant today.
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Physician Assistant
2,928 Job Openings
Understanding the Physician Assistant Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire